Pope Leo XIV offers support to Ukrainians, Zelenskyy responds

The message appeared on the social network X.

“I want to express my closeness to suffering Ukraine — to the children, youth, elderly, and especially the families mourning their loved ones. I share your pain for the prisoners and victims of this senseless war,” said Pope Leo XIV.

He added that the faith of Ukrainians “is now being severely tested.”

“To believe doesn’t mean having all the answers, but trusting that God is with us and gives us His grace — that He will have the final word and life will overcome death,” the Pope added.

Zelenskyy’s reaction

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy replied to the Pope’s message, emphasizing the need for a just peace.

“Thank you, Your Holiness, for your constant prayers and compassion for Ukraine and our people. Together we must stop this reckless Russian aggression and protect innocent lives. We need a just peace. We are also truly grateful for your help in bringing back all our people — adults and children — who are being held in Russian captivity against their will,” Zelenskyy said.

• As a reminder, on May 11, during his first Sunday prayer as Pope, Leo XIV called for an end to wars around the world and wished Ukraine a swift and just peace.
• On May 28, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, the Pope again called for an end to the war in Ukraine. This happened at the close of the general audience.
• In early June, Pope Leo XIV spoke by phone with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and urged Russia to make a move that would support peace.